BBC comedy brings you Episodes {TV}

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BBC Two and Hat Trick have created ‘Episodes’ a seven-part comedy series from the highly acclaimed writing partnership of David Crane (Friends) and Jeffrey Klarik (Mad About You).

The show tells the story of a happily married English couple, Sean and Beverly Lincoln, who also happen to be successful producers of a hit British TV show called Lyman’s Boys.

At an awards ceremony in London they are wooed by a hugely powerful and charismatic US network executive who persuades them to move out to LA and remake their hit show for an American audience – with disastrous results.

Things begin to unravel at Sean’s and Beverly’s first studio meeting. It soon becomes clear that the network president has never even seen their show. To make matters worse, he insists they replace their lead actor, an erudite Royal Shakespeare Company veteran (played by Richard Griffiths) with… Matt LeBlanc. Sean and Beverly are appalled. But the decision is out of their hands.

Matt comes on board and they find themselves in a complicated triangle, which threatens to destroy not just their TV show but also their marriage.

The quintessential US comedy star Matt LeBlanc plays a larger than life version of himself. Joining him are Tamsin Greig (Tamara Drewe, Green Wing, Love Soup), Stephen Mangan (Free Agents, Never Better, Green Wing), Kathleen Rose Perkins (Without A Trace, Tell Me You Love Me), Mircea Monroe (Scrubs, Without A Trace), Daisy Haggard (Psychoville, Sense And Sensibility) and Richard Griffiths (The History Boys, Withnail And I).

Jimmy Mulville comments: “These are some of the best scripts I’ve read in a long time by two writers at the top of their game.

“To have the opportunity to make a show with David Crane andJeffrey Klarik, with Matt LeBlanc playing a hilarious version of himself, and then to make that show for both Showtime and the BBC, whose combined portfolios of comedy are second to none, is both a thrill and a great privilege. Episodes promises to be one of the great comedy treats of 2011.”

Matt LeBlanc adds: “This is a great idea from David and Jeffrey – I love it. I am really excited to be working with Showtime and the BBC. And I am also so glad I got the part; seeing someone else playing Matt LeBlanc would have been devastating.”

Start watching Episodes from Monday 10 January 2011 at 10pm.

T’WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS…AND OVER TWO THIRDS OF BRITS WERE STILL SHOPPING

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Despite best intentions, 68% of Brits still search for gifts on Christmas Eve

· Brits set to waste £2 billion[1] on panic-bought gifts this Christmas

· A nation of last-minute Christmas shoppers – over three quarters (76%) of us panic-buy the night before Christmas to ensure stockings are filled

· Half (50%) of shoppers have deliberately bought something overly expensive or extravagant in a moment of panic

· Panic-buy Britain: 32% have bought on a whim because they couldn’t find what they are looking for and 32% because they unexpectedly received a present and felt obliged to return the gesture

· Almost half (48%) of consumers admit to avoiding the panic by recycling an unwanted gift they’ve already received

· Christmas shoppers urged to use InvisibleHand (www.getinvisiblehand.com) to grab the best festive bargains.

Ever woken up realising you’ve forgotten that all-important present the morning before Christmas Day? Well you’re not alone. According to new research[2] from InvisibleHand, the free online shopping tool, over two thirds of UK shoppers (68%) also end up buying last minute gifts from the shops on Christmas Eve, while over three quarters (76%) of us end up panic-buying to ensure Santa’s quota is met.

In fact, panic buying last year led to half (50%) of consumers deliberately purchasing something overly expensive or extravagant. Going by last year’s overspend, Brits could be set to waste a whopping £2 billion on last-minute, panic-bought gifts this year[1].

Not being able to find the ‘right’ gift (32%) and being unexpectedly given a present and having to return the gesture (32%) are among the main reasons why people end up panic-buying. However, consumers also put pressure on themselves with over a quarter (26%) leaving it until the last minute because they can’t actually decide whether to buy someone a gift or not. A forgetful 18% end up in a flap because they simply forget to buy a gift.

As a result of the panic, consumers cut corners with three in ten (31%) buying something the wrong size so that the recipient could return it after Christmas. Men are particularly bad at adopting this cunning ploy – 38% use this tactic. Two in ten people (19%) even buy something that they know the recipient won’t like. Again, men lead the way with 24% having used this ruse.

People even resort to ‘re-gifting’ – almost half (48%) admit to re-cycling an unwanted gift they’d already received. What’s more, women seem to be the best at this with almost half (48%) having recycled unwanted gifts in the past, compared to just 30% of men.

Robin Landy, founder of InvisibleHand, says: “As the carol goes: ‘‘tis the season to be jolly’, but for most of us the weeks leading up to the big day are often another story altogether. This is especially the case if you’ve left your Christmas shopping to the last minute. This often leads to panic-buying and consumers making extremely poor purchasing decisions, often forking out far more than necessary as a result.

“Purchasing Christmas gifts under pressure could see a staggering £2 billion wasted on panic–bought items this year alone. This is astonishing and could be easily avoided by shopping online. The key thing is for consumers to shop around to make sure they find the best prices available to avoid paying vast amounts. There are some great deals to be found by savvy shoppers looking to track down a Christmas bargain.”

InvisibleHand’s top five tips for online Christmas shopping:

§ Search online to make sure you have the best price available to avoid spending more than you need to

§ Ensure you read the terms and conditions regarding postage and packaging to avoid any unnecessary costs

§ Be sure to read up on delivery times to ensure gifts arrive in good time

§ Take advantage of discount vouchers on offer by searching online and entering a promotional code before clicking the ‘buy’ button

§ Check whether the retailer offers a gift-wrapping service, which could save you time in the long run.

Guinness World Records Announce Largest Santa Claus Collection.

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Retired Canadian teacher enters the Guinness World Records™ 2011 edition with world’s ‘Largest Collection of Santa Claus Memorabilia’

Jean-Guy’s 25,000-piece collection fills his entire house!

74-year-old Jean-Guy Laquerre from Boucherville, Quebec, today celebrates being officially recognised as the biggest collector of Santa Claus-themed memorabilia in the world, having accumulated an incredible 25,189 items from 33 countries over the past 22 years. His record-breaking collection, which is still growing in size, has earned him a place in the Guinness World Records 2011 edition and will also feature as part of the new Guinness World Records iPad app Guinness World Records: At Your Fingertips, which launches today on the iTunes store.

Jean-Guy began his collection in 1988 after being left a Santa Claus statuette from the early 1900s by a deceased relative. This touching gesture inspired him to start hunting for everything Santa-related, from postcards and brooches to toys and posters. And just like Santa, in his bid to keep expanding his collection, Jean-Guy has his own band of helpers – friends rather than elves! – that send him gifts from antique shops and garage sales, to help boost his assortment of Father Christmas merchandise.

Now the enthusiast has been rewarded with a certificate, a place in the 2011 edition book and will also feature in the new Guinness World Records app which launches today. Commenting on his record-breaking collection, Jean-Guy said: “To be included in the Guinness World Records book is a big honour. It’s the best of the best, the top of the top – like being an Olympic gold medal winner! Being part of the iPad app gives me even more joy as it will help spread the happiness my collection brings to people.”

Guinness World Records Editor-in-chief Craig Glenday says: “Jean-Guy personifies the magic of Christmas ­ his collection is a joy to behold and brings a smile to the face of even the most hardened of cynics. He’s the kind of grandfather that every child would want!”

An ideal Christmas gift for both knowledge-seekers and aspiring record-breakers of all ages, Guinness World Records 2011 edition is available now from all good book retailers (RRP £20).

The Guinness World Records app Guinness World Records: At Your Fingertips launches today, delivering more than 150 photographs, 140 records, 20 stunning video clips, and three exclusive games that enable iPad users – for the first time ever – to be able to attempt and set real Guinness World Records straight from their iPad.

Guinness World Records: At Your Fingertips is available now at the iTunes Store for £2.99. For more information visit http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/ipad.aspx

True Blood. {TV Preview}

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Vampires might be ubiquitous at the moment, but that doesn’t mean that viewers are sick of them yet. The return of the sexy, slick True Blood is most welcome. Mostly so due to the casting of the gorgeous ( and mostly naked ) Alexander Skarsgård.

Bill proposed to Sookie and promptly goes missing. Where is he, and has he been kidnapped? Overly fertile Arlene is also in for a surprise.

In it’s third series, True Blood is still coming up with the goods. The writing is on top form and there is enough twists and turns to keep viewers happy. Due to the nudity and violence, probably not one to watch with your parents.

Fridays at 10pm from Jan 14th. Only on FX

JACK THE RIPPER: THE GERMAN SUSPECT {TV Preview}

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Arguably , no serial Killer has been scrutinized more than Jack the Ripper. It is thought that he was responsible for 5 brutal murders of prostitutes.

For more than 120 years, the identity of the infamous Whitechapel murderer has remained unknown. Now, astonishing new evidence revealed after decades of meticulous research, by retired UK police detective Trevor Marriot claims to have finally discovered the killer’s true identity – a German merchant sailor.

Teaming up with criminal psychologist Thomas Muller and a team of international experts, Marriott applies modern detective techniques to this century-old crime in an attempt to solve the apparently unsolvable case, and what he uncovers is truly remarkable. On a trail that takes him through Europe and into New York’s Lower East Side, Marriott claims not only to have uncovered the identity of the Ripper but also the nature of his own grisly end. Could Britain’s most notorious serial killer also have been responsible for a spate of similar murders across the pond?

The programme is good, but it is hard to believe that any human being could be capable of such crimes. I learned more about Jack the Ripper than from anything else I have watched. I highly recommend it. Just don’t watch it alone.

JACK THE RIPPER: THE GERMAN SUSPECT, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CHANNEL MONDAY 3RD JANUARY AT 9PM.

How to successfully shop the sales rail. {Fashion}

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Here at Frost we love a bargain. So we asked fashion advisers at John Lewis how to successfully shop in the sales. We hope this guide stops any post-purchase blues.

John Lewis Fashion Advisers will be tailoring their appointments throughout the end of December and January to accommodate customers who want to find gems amongst the sales rails. The expert Fashion Advice team will be on hand to share their secrets to sale shopping, helping customers find stand-out pieces which fit, flatter and function. Fashion lovers will be advised on colour palettes, staple pieces and how to get the most for their money.

Head of Fashion Advice Amanda Slader says: “The key to savvy sales shopping is planning rather than impulse buying. Sales provide customers with the opportunity to build up a staple wardrobe of basic and classic pieces, as these are always the best bargains. It is important to remember to make sensible choices, for example, choosing a timeless little black dress is a much better sale choice than a piece from last season’s trend. Size does matter when shopping the sales as customers shouldn’t have to compromise on a good fit for reduced price.”

Amanda’s ten hot tips for shopping the sales:

1. Take inventory. Before you leave the house and hit the sales, inspect your wardrobe and make sure you know what you have and what you are missing.

2. Be strategic. Make a list of what you are hoping to find in the sales and try not to get sidetracked.

3. Wear flat shoes and comfortable clothes. You are likely to be on your feet and in and out of fitting rooms all day so it’s important to be dressed accordingly.

4. Keep it classic. Aim to build a staple wardrobe. It’s important to remember that a little black dress is a future classic and a much better investment than last season’s statement trend. The sales are a great time to pick up other timeless classics such as a trench coat by Aquascutum, figure flattering day dresses by LK Bennett and a camel coat by Hobbs. Also be on the lookout for great basics such as a fitted pencil skirt and tailored jacket from Reiss, great fitting jeans or the perfect pumps.

5. Complement your existing wardrobe. Take into account the cut, colour, shape and style that suit you. Make thoughtful purchases that reflect your signature style; the sale is not an excuse to drastically change your look.

6. Try it on. If it is not a good fit then it is not a good buy. It is always worth asking if there are more sizes in the stockroom if yours isn’t available on the shop floor.

7. Be thorough. Try everything on before buying and have a look to make sure you are aware of any faults before you make your purchase. Unless you are willing to repair it yourself it is not a good investment!

8. Check the returns policy. If you don’t have time to try anything on it’s important to know if you can return or exchange the item.

9. Avoid the lunch hour. Lunchtime is shopping rush hour! To avoid stressful shopping it’s best to hit the sales before or after work and at the weekend.

10. Accessorise. The easiest way to update your wardrobe is by accessorising. Statement jewellery by Adele Marie and John Lewis Collection will make an outfit look on trend and bright bags by Ted Baker and Aspinal are good ways to breathe new life and colour into your wardrobe.

LAST MINUTE MAN. {Christmas Gift Idea}

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SELFRIDGES LAUNCHES SOS SHOPPING SERVICE FOR MEN-ONLY FOLLOWING NEWS THAT 80 PER CENT OF ITS CHRISTMAS EVE SHOPPERS ARE EXPECTED TO BE MALE

80 per cent of shoppers at Selfridges on Christmas Eve are expected to be men

He’s only had 365 days to complete it, however Selfridges, the world’s best department store reveals that for yet another year, 80 per cent of its male shoppers have left it to the final hour to purchase Christmas presents for their nearest and dearest.

Selfridges anticipates over 250,000 customers to start their festive shopping on Christmas Eve, and the majority of these to be men who rely on the expertise of sales colleagues to emerge laden with a gift selection that will bring tears of joy (instead of just tears), on Christmas morning.

With this in mind, Selfridges is to introduce a special 30 minute SOS shopping service for those men who are clueless to the art of Christmas present buying. Starting Saturday 18th December, and running until stores close at 5.30pm on Christmas Eve, Selfridges’ Gift Gurus will offer male customers an express 30-minute no fuss service – guaranteed to cater for all their last minute panic Christmas gifts.

The Gift Guru Express service will be available in all Selfridges’ stores nationwide. Customers are asked to go to Selfridges’ information desk, where the closest Gift Guru will be contacted via a radio-link and the 30 minutes starts from then. The service, which was trialled last weekend, was inundated with men wanting to take advantage of wrapping up their Christmas in one swift 30 minute session.

According to scientists, the reason behind men’s last minute panic Christmas shopping, compared to female’s more considered approach, is down to a woman’s love of spending hours browsing in shops while men prefer to be in and out in minutes, reflecting their primitive past when women foraged whilst men hunted and gathered.

Selfridges’ Gift Guru, Ena O’Neill said: “Last minute man does his desperate shopping in the final hours of Christmas Eve. He comes in and asks to be shown the most expensive fragrance and just goes with that. The trick to productive gift buying, even for those who have left it to the final hour is to prepare a list. Don’t be afraid of asking questions, to find out what people actually want, what size they are, and any dislikes. I am always amazed at how many men are petrified of shopping. Last weekend we had many grab-and-run male shoppers who admitted disliking the gift buying experience, but left the store with a a huge smile after their 30 minute, hassle free shopping session.”

Anne Pitcher, Buying & Merchandising Director at Selfridges said; “For some men, shopping at this time of the year can be quite a stressful and daunting experience, especially for those not accustomed to gift buying. Our Gift Guru Express service is targeted at these men specifically, and provides them with a productive and effective service, all keeping within the festive spirit”

Selfridges’ Top Ten Gift Guru Express Gifts (jewellery):

1. Chanel J12 watch in blue from £2,750
2. Boucheron Four Gold Ring, £2,160 without diamonds, £4,390 with diamonds
3. Theo Fennell Skull Ring in silver, from £250
4. Missoni Toy Watch £385
5. Natalia Brilli gold watch bracelet £205
6. Lanvin glass pompom necklace £1,115
7. Yves Saint Lauren arty cuff £595
8. Georg Jenson fusion white gold ear studs £895
9. Hermes Enamel bracelet £375
10. Tiffany Praseolite cocktail ring £635

Selfridges’ Top Ten Gift Guru Express Gifts (beauty):

1. Bare Escentuals make up box £500
2. Benefit Dolls House £400
3. Chanel No 5 soap box set £30
4. Nars Kabuki Box Bowls £95
5. Lancome Exclusive Juicy Tube gift set, £30
6. Bobbi Brown Deluxe Beauty Trunk £350
7. Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Collection £259
8. Vivienne Westwood Naughty Alice 50ml gift set, £50
9. Supersized Chanel No. 5 £800-£3,000
10. Creme de La Mer Globetrotter £950

The Art of No-Expense Gift Giving { Christmas gift ideas }

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This year the average holiday shopper plans to spend £441.99 on holiday-related expenses, with £332.77 for gifts alone, according to the National Retail Federation’s 2010 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Action Survey. Whether your budget for the holidays is higher, lower, or right in line with the national averages, you should always try to stay within the limit you set for yourself. If you find you’ve maxed out this year’s gift budget, yet still have people left to check off your gift list, the art of no-expense gifting may be your best option.

Money Management International (MMI) offers insight into the art of no-expense gifting with three ideas that won’t put you over your holiday budget.

Give free printable gift certificates. Great gifts don’t have to cost a lot of money. Free printable holiday gift certificates allow you to offer an experience or an act of service while still giving the recipient a wrapped gift. Free printable gift certificates are actually great to give all year long.

Give homemade treats. Give your loved ones a heartwarming treat from the oven. Bake homemade sweet bread, gingerbread cookies, or mini raspberry cupcakes. Deliver the treats in festive containers. Your family and friends will be pleasantly surprised with the edible delights. For recipe ideas download the free Cheap Eats eBook.

Give a regift. A regift is a gift you’ve received that you pass along to someone else. While there are some cringe-worthy regifting tales, there are also some heartwarming regifting stories. Visit Regiftable.com for ideas and stories that will help you select an appropriate regift that the recipient will appreciate.

While some might argue that no-expense gift gifting is cheap, Cate Williams, Vice President of Financial Literacy at MMI, disagrees. “No-expense gifting is really about giving a gift the recipient will value and appreciate,” Williams added. “While not spending money on a gift is frugal, the thought and consideration the gift-giver puts into giving a gift the recipient will appreciate keeps the gift from being cheap.”

www.MoneyManagement.org